Italian Hot Chocolate Cioccolato Caldo
Indulge in the luxurious, velvety embrace of Italian Hot Chocolate, or Cioccolato Caldo, a decadent treat that redefines comfort in a cup. This authentic recipe pairs rich dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) with whole milk, a touch of cornstarch for thickness, and a hint of sugar for balance, creating a luscious beverage that's irresistibly thick and creamy. Unlike traditional hot chocolates, this Italian classic boasts a pudding-like consistency that feels utterly indulgent. Made in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect warming dessert or cozy afternoon indulgence. Topped with optional whipped cream and infused with a whisper of vanilla, each sip is a velvety masterpiece. Treat yourself to this café-style experience at home—rich, smooth, and authentically Italian!
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Ingredients
- 500 ml Whole milk
- 100 g Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
- 30 g Granulated sugar
- 10 g Cornstarch
- 10 g Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract (optional)
- 0 Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Directions
Step 1
Finely chop the dark chocolate and set it aside.
Step 2
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and unsweetened cocoa powder. Add 2-3 tablespoons of the milk and stir until a smooth paste forms.
Step 3
In a medium saucepan, pour the remaining milk and set it over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and cook until the milk is hot but not boiling.
Step 4
Lower the heat to medium-low. Gradually add the cocoa-cornstarch mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Step 5
Add the chopped dark chocolate to the saucepan and whisk continuously until it has melted and is fully incorporated.
Step 6
Continue to cook and stir for about 5-7 minutes or until the hot chocolate thickens to your desired consistency. Remember, Italian hot chocolate is meant to be thick and velvety.
Step 7
If using vanilla extract, stir it in now and remove the saucepan from the heat.
Step 8
Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and serve immediately. Optionally, top with whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (684.9g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1152.9 |
| Total Fat 65.6g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 38.4g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.6g | |
| Cholesterol 71.9mg | 0% |
| Sodium 222.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 116.6g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 14.6g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 80.5g | |
| Protein 27.0g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 226.9IU | 0% |
| Calcium 729.5mg | 0% |
| Iron 13.5mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1656.8mg | 0% |
Source of Calories